The upcoming ReliaQuest Bowl promises to be a thrilling affair as No. 14 Vanderbilt faces No. 23 Iowa on December 31, 2025, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. This matchup stands out, not only because it’s one of the few bowl games featuring top-25 teams, but also for the high-profile players competing for each squad.
Leading the charge are two impressive quarterbacks. Vanderbilt’s Diego Pavia, who finished as runner-up in the Heisman Trophy voting, led the Southeastern Conference in numerous passing metrics, showcasing both remarkable arm strength and agility. On the other side, Iowa’s Mark Gronowski is lauded as the top running quarterback in Hawkeye history, having notched 491 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns this season.
The game also features two well-respected coaches. If Kirk Ferentz of Iowa secures a victory, he will set a new Big Ten record for the most bowl wins by a coach, surpassing the legendary Joe Paterno. Conversely, a win for Clark Lea and Vanderbilt would mark a significant achievement, as he would become the first Commodores coach since James Franklin to win consecutive bowl games.
As fans gear up for the event, it is crucial to note the changes in team rosters. Eli Stowers, Vanderbilt’s standout tight end and Mackey Award winner, has opted out of the game to prepare for the NFL Draft. His exceptional season saw him achieve career highs with 62 catches and 769 yards. Meanwhile, Iowa heads into the postseason fully equipped, aiming to utilize their award-winning roster, which includes center Logan Jones, the Rimington Trophy recipient.
The game is highlighted by a clash between Iowa’s formidable defense, ranked seventh nationally in several key metrics, and Vanderbilt’s potent offense, which ranks eighth in scoring and holds top-13 positions in total and passing yards. The matchup sets the stage for an exciting battle of strength as the Commodores’ offensive capabilities will be tested against the Hawkeyes’ defense.
With both teams having strong seasons, the prediction for the game appears promising. Iowa’s performances have been tight, with no losses exceeding five points. The expected spread is set at 4.5 points, which seems manageable given Vanderbilt’s offensive prowess. The potential for a high-scoring affair is strong, especially considering both teams have demonstrated their ability to put points on the board. The expectation is that fans will see an exhilarating display of college football talent.
As the New Year’s Eve matchup approaches, anticipation builds not just for the teams’ performance, but also for the culmination of an exciting college football season. Whether you support the Hawkeyes or the Commodores, this bowl game is sure to be a memorable end to the year.